Would-be satellite-based direct-to-device (D2D) operator, Lynk Global has started beta-tests of its D2D service over the Philippines. SES has a significant stake in Lynk which itself is in the process of combining with Omnispace (announced in October).

Following the merger, SES will become a major strategic shareholder in the combined business, facilitating a robust deployment of D2D and IoT services for mobile network operator (MNO), enterprise and government customers as part of a multi-orbit, multi-spectrum network architecture.

The Philippines announcement says that Lynk is working with local telco Smart Communications and confirmed by Lynk on November 24th. Lynk informed the FCC that it had obtained all its necessary authorisations and agreements in order to provide a D2D service.

Somewhat confusingly Smart already had a relationship with AST SpaceMobile (with a MoU announced on July 6th 2021) and talking of Smart’s 70 million subscribers.

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Categories: Articles, Broadband, Satellite

Tags: d2d, lynk, Philippines, SES